Representative End User Clients
Representative Automation Clients
Representative Software Clients
Schneider Electric has introduced the Motivair WCDU, a coolant distribution unit designed to support hybrid air- and liquid-cooling architectures in high-density AI data centers.
Schneider Electric has introduced its Motivair WCDU coolant distribution unit for high-density AI data centers. The unit integrates with fan-wall air-cooling systems and supports hybrid air- and liquid-cooling configurations across different data center layouts.
The WCDU is designed to allow operators to change the balance between liquid and air cooling as workload requirements become clearer. This approach can support staged cooling deployments and reduce the risk of installing capacity that is not ultimately required.
Motivair WCDU for hybrid liquid- and air-cooled data centers
Cooling Deployment and Service Access
The unit is intended for installation in a technical corridor rather than in the data hall’s white space. Its top-entry connections are designed to keep the data hall clear while providing access for installation, maintenance, and service activities.
The all-in-one unit incorporates pumps, heat exchangers, and other cooling components within a single steel frame. Schneider Electric states that the WCDU requires no lateral clearance, which may be relevant for both new facilities and retrofits where space is constrained.
Capacity and Availability
A single WCDU provides cooling capacity of up to 3.5 MW at 1.5 liters per minute per kW. Up to 20 units can operate together in group mode, a configuration Schneider Electric says can support data halls ranging from 30 MW to 40 MW. The company also states that warmer operating temperatures can improve overall energy efficiency.
The WCDU is part of the Motivair by Schneider Electric liquid-cooling portfolio. Shipping is scheduled to begin in select regions in October 2026, with US pre-orders opening in early 2027.
Related ARC Insights
ARC has examined the growing role of coolant distribution units, hybrid cooling architectures, and integrated power-and-cooling systems in supporting higher-density AI and high-performance computing environments.
Motivair by Schneider Electric: New Coolant Distribution Units for HPC and AI Workloads
Motivair by Schneider Electric Introduces 2.5 MW CDU for Scalable AI and HPC Data Centers
As AI infrastructure moves to higher rack densities, data center operators are increasingly evaluating cooling architectures that can accommodate changing workload profiles while preserving space for IT equipment and service access.